AEM's patented air bypass valve for its cold air intake systems virtually eliminates the chance of water ingestion. Should the filter element become wet from deep puddles, rain, hail, sleet, snow or become submerged in water, the valve springs into action. Installed along the upper portion of the inlet pipe it shuts down induction at the filter when it becomes submerged, rerouting air through its external diaphragm to keep water out and air flowing in. This will eliminate the costly damages that can occur when water is injested.